Here are 10 simple yet effective tips inspired by TOGA, a leader in real estate development for over 60 years - so you can turn your balcony into a true urban jungle!
Get to know your balcony's conditions
Before you start, it’s worth checking how much weight your balcony can support. Then observe which direction it faces and how much sunlight it receives daily. Is it sheltered or windy? These factors all influence which plants you should choose.
Consider what you want to use it for
Do you want a quiet little corner for your morning coffee? Or would you rather have a place for friendly gatherings? The function also determines the furnishing - a small coffee table and two chairs might be enough for a cozy nook, while a foldable table with several chairs is useful for socializing.
Create harmony with your home
If your home's interior is clean and restrained, it’s worth following the same style on your balcony. Harmony creates a pleasant, unified atmosphere between the outdoor and indoor spaces.
Start small
Don’t try to create a jungle right away! If you don’t have much experience with plant care, start with a few hardy, easy-to-manage plants. This way, gardening won’t become a hassle, and you can quickly enjoy success!
Don’t overcrowd
The less is more principle – as in many other areas of life – is worth applying when turning your balcony into an oasis! If you cram too many things onto the balcony, it can look cluttered and be difficult to care for properly. Choose a maximum of 2-3 color shades for your plants (besides green) to create a more harmonious overall look.
Brighten it up with striking, eye-catching flowers
Your balcony becomes truly atmospheric the moment you add a few showy, easy-to-maintain plants. For example, oleander is not only beautiful but also tolerates warm, sunny balconies well. Geranium is a classic balcony flower – colorful, blooms abundantly, and even withstands the dusty city air. Petunia and lobelia are also great choices if you want a truly spectacular, cascading sea of flowers. For lasting color, choose annual or perennial flowers like marigold or lavender – they shine all season and don’t require special expertise to care for.
Make use of the walls too – upwards!
If you also take advantage of the possibilities offered by the walls on your balcony, you can achieve an even more wonderful result! Vertical gardens are not only spectacular but also true space-saving solutions! A simple wall-mounted flower holder frame can, for example, house your herbs, and you’ll always have fresh basil or rosemary at hand. Moreover, nowadays there are many stylish, easy-to-install options to choose from – so it can be not only practical but also a decorative element of your balcony.
Choose larger pots
Larger pots are not only more visually impressive but your plants may also feel better in them; some studies suggest that the bigger the pot, the faster the plants grow. But don’t forget the saucers to protect your balcony flooring from water damage!
Mood lighting makes it truly magical
Don’t let your green oasis stay dark at night! Simple tealights, hanging lanterns, or LED string lights are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere. Thread them through the branches or hang them from the ceiling – the effect is guaranteed!
Dress up your pots too
A small but effective trick: sprinkle decorative stones, bark, or pebbles on top of the potting soil. It’s not only aesthetic but also helps retain soil moisture – so you’ll need to water less often.
Last but not least, remember that a green balcony is not only beautiful but also good for your soul! Even the smallest plant corner can bring peace, fresh air, and a bit of nature into urban everyday life.
